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PASTORAL PSYCHOLOGY
clearly and plainly remembering it. Even this act of recollection
has some liberating power. We observe things in truer
perspective and call them by the right names—the first step towards
becoming free of them. What we then regret is less our actions
than that we could have been the kind of person to commit
them. :
As Scheler points out, this means that when remorse is deep
and earnest there has been a real penetration into the past: a
surgical incision that breaks up the old synthesis of personality
and constructs a new one. Remorse is then an energetic act of
recollection, in and through which we are raised to higher
spiritual levels. In the truest sense, we become free from the
guilt which bound us to the past: and new, constructive powers
surge into expression. The past has gone and all things have
become new.
In the struggle for mental and spiritual health, a true sense
of guilt is an asset that can hardly be valued too highly. It has
the greatest importance for the development of personality.
For this reason it is of the utmost moment that a person who
truly and deeply experiences guilt should be understood. A
faulty judgment of his situation is attended with serious risks.
When a guilt feeling accompanied by remorse is liberated
there is a characteristic release of energy and desire for activity.
It can be misdirected. The experience of guilt usually brings
with it every sign of serious mental crisis: a tornado of confused
thoughts, feelings and impulses through which the personality
needs quiet, wise and careful guidance. The task of the
Christian directer of souls is a very responsible one.
A holy flame burns in the real guilt feeling. It must not be
quenched or subdued. It must be tended by wise and loving
hands. The best preparation for this task is personal experience.
Those who have themselves known guilt and have groped their
way along the path to forgiveness and peace are safe guides.
They know where guilt is changed into thanksgiving.
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